12 Best Places to Live in Florida for 40 Year Olds – 2024 Latest Update
We found the the best places to live in Florida for 40 year olds that still offer fun experiences, but with a bit of a more mature vibe and good job prospects.
From the silky sands of the Gulf Coast to inland havens, the Sunshine State offers an eclectic buffet of living options for those approaching or already basking in their 40s.
Below, we’ve curated the top 12 spots that strike a peculiar balance between affordability, career opportunities, and an all-around fabulous way of life.
Table of Contents
Methodology
Choosing the best places to live in Florida for 40-year-olds required us to dive deep into data—a matrix of cost of living, job opportunities, crime rates, and overall livability.
We measured how easy it is to find stable employment, how safe it feels to stroll at 10 p.m., and how much joy the local amenities inject into a life that’s been seasoned for four decades. We also placed a spotlight on key attractions that cater specifically to the interests of this age group: be it trendy restaurants, wellness retreats, outdoor activities, or cultural events.
The result? A list as unpredictable and exhilarating as your forties should be.
12. Naples, Florida
Population: 19,115
Location: Check on Google Maps
Naples is more than just a playground for retirees—it’s a haven for those who like to revel in the sun without losing their edge. A place where the Gulf of Mexico cradles the coastline, you’ll find 40-year-olds soaking up art galleries, swanky eateries, and high-end shopping spots.
The job market is strong, especially for those in health and wellness industries, making it a solid choice for professionals looking to both unwind and elevate their careers.
11. St. Petersburg, Florida
Population: 258,308
Location: Check on Google Maps
St. Petersburg feels like a kaleidoscope that’s eternally spinning. There’s the Salvador Dalí Museum for your surrealist leanings, music festivals for your sonic cravings, and job opportunities in booming industries like healthcare and tech.
With a median age hovering in the mid-40s, the city boasts a “young enough to party, old enough to care” vibe.
10. Winter Park, Florida
Population: 30,183
Location: Check on Google Maps
Classical in appearance, but not stuck in the past—Winter Park’s brick streets lead to a tapestry of cultural experiences. If you’re 40 and want an artful blend of leisure and ambition, this Orlando-adjacent town has your number.
Scenic boat tours, farmers markets brimming with quirky finds, and proximity to Orlando’s massive job market seal the deal.
If you are looking for a bit of an upscale feel, then Winter Park is one of the best places to live in Florida for 40 year olds that have a bit of wealth.
9. Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Population: 182,760
Location: Check on Google Maps
Fort Lauderdale may have a reputation for spring breakers, but don’t let that fool you. It’s a hidden gem for 40-year-olds who appreciate a touch of elegance mixed with a bit of energy.
The Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District offers a steady stream of concerts, art exhibits, and foodie experiences that would make anyone feel 20 years younger—yet, wise enough to savor it. Employment prospects? Plenty, especially in the tourism and marine industries.
8. Sarasota, Florida
Population: 54,842
Location: Check on Google Maps
Sarasota’s beaches look like they were cut from some otherworldly blueprint, perfect for the 40-year-old who seeks both visual serenity and professional growth.
The arts scene here rivals cities twice its size, and job opportunities in healthcare and hospitality keep the economy pumping. It’s the kind of place where you can kayak in the morning and attend an opera at night without missing a beat.
7. Tampa, Florida
Population: 399,700
Location: Check on Google Maps
Tampa is a city that refuses to sit still, which is exactly what makes it magnetic for 40-year-olds. The job market thrives, especially in finance and healthcare.
Combine that with a nightlife scene that ranges from craft beer joints to sophisticated rooftop lounges, and you’ve got a city that speaks to every layer of your persona. Plus, Busch Gardens is right there for a weekend thrill when adulting gets too real.
6. Coral Gables, Florida
Population: 49,248
Location: Check on Google Maps
For those seeking a touch of sophistication with their sunshine, Coral Gables is a sanctuary. Known for its Mediterranean Revival architecture and verdant landscapes, it’s ideal for 40-year-olds ready to dive into a pool of culture and career opportunities.
The city has a high concentration of white-collar jobs, particularly in finance, education, and international business. And let’s not forget the Miracle Mile—shopping that reminds you that 40 is the new fabulous.
5. Key West, Florida
Population: 26,500
Location: Check on Google Maps
Key West is for the 40-year-old who’s ready to throw caution to the trade winds. Jobs here often tilt toward the hospitality and tourism sectors, which thrive in this island paradise.
Life slows down just enough to remind you that time is a construct, and the sunset celebrations at Mallory Square are daily reminders to stay present. Laid-back yet quirky, it’s a place where you can find your tribe of adventurers and art lovers.
4. Gainesville, Florida
Population: 141,085
Location: Check on Google Maps
Home to the University of Florida, Gainesville has a young, intellectual spirit that often belies its affordable cost of living and outdoor wonders. Forty-year-olds will appreciate the brainy buzz coupled with an endless array of nature escapes—think hiking, birdwatching, or paddling through nearby springs.
Add in a growing tech scene and a relatively low crime rate, and you’ve got a great mix for those seeking a balanced, fulfilling life.
In our opinion, Gainesville is one of the best places to live in Florida for 40 year olds who still want a connection to their youth, but also want solid job opportunities.
3. Miami, Florida
Population: 442,241
Location: Check on Google Maps
Why Miami? Because, at 40, you’re more than capable of keeping up with the city’s frenetic pace while appreciating the gems hidden beneath the surface.
Miami’s art deco district, an international food scene, and a robust job market in industries like tech, finance, and media make it the perfect match for professionals still climbing the ladder while savoring every moment. And the beaches? They don’t hurt either.
2. Orlando, Florida
Population: 307,573
Location: Check on Google Maps
Sure, Orlando might first conjure images of theme parks, but it’s much more than that—especially for the 40-year-olds who want a little fun with their career growth. The city offers strong job prospects in tourism, healthcare, and emerging tech.
And when work is done, the entertainment options are endless—from world-class restaurants to mind-bending escape rooms. Plus, there’s no state income tax, so your earnings go further.
1. Jacksonville, Florida
Population: 949,611
Location: Check on Google Maps
At the top of the list is Jacksonville, a sprawling city that combines the best of both worlds: affordability and opportunity. The cost of living is lower compared to other Florida hotspots, and the job market is diverse, ranging from healthcare and finance to logistics.
And when you’re not working, the miles of uncrowded beaches, riverside walks, and craft breweries offer plenty of ways to unwind. That makes Jacksonville the best place to live in Florida for 40 year olds as it’s the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and career stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did you choose these places?
We relied on a mix of hard data and subjective charm points. Cities with low crime rates, high job opportunities, and a reasonable cost of living were prioritized. Additionally, we factored in amenities that appeal to 40-year-olds, such as cultural institutions, outdoor activities, and dining options.
Is Florida a good place for 40-year-olds to live?
Absolutely. With no state income tax, abundant sunshine, and a wide variety of places that cater to different lifestyles, Florida remains a great option for people in their forties.
What is the cost of living in these cities?
The cost of living varies but remains relatively affordable compared to other coastal states. The most affordable places on this list are Gainesville and Jacksonville, while Coral Gables and Naples tend to be more expensive.
